ELSPA, the U.K. computer and video game publishing trade association, has announced today that it will be creating a PC digital download chart for the region. It will partner with GfK Chart-Track, a packaged goods charts specialist, and a working group of members who sell digital downloads for PC. Together, the group will produce a closed beta chart to test the waters, with the intention of a full release through Chart-Track once all parties are satisfied.
The group is comprised of a number of large-scale players in digital distribution, including Ubisoft, THQ, Sega, NCsoft, Mastertronic, Kalypso Media, Midas Interactive and Square Enix. Three other major publishers will be formally joining the group soon. The group has already been at work on the project for a few months, with the processes having reached the point that an announcement is possible. All stakeholders have confirmed that third-party sales will be included, ensuring that Steam is not forgotten.
“We formed this group specifically to deal with the supply of an official download chart, initially for the PC and initially for the U.K. We are really glad that ELSPA members have stepped up to the plate and we have a legal agreement with Chart-Track for them to do the heavy lifting as they have the experience and knowledge of the industry,” said Andy Payne, Chairman of ELSPA. “This chart will be owned by ELSPA and I would call for other members to join the group as soon as they can and not miss out in helping to form and shape this important development for all of us. We in the process of reaching out to TIGA and their membership and hope to have more on that very soon.’
“We at Chart-Track are thrilled to have been invited to extend our remit for the packaged goods charts into the digital space. Working with ELSPA and their members makes total sense and we look forward to delivering a chart very soon,” added John Pinder, Managing Director of GfK Chart-Track.
“It is great to be working with members to build a report which will not only deliver member value, but one which will help the U.K. interactive entertainment industry realise its potential in an increasingly connected digital economy,” said Sam Collins, ELSPA’s Commercial Manager.
IndustryGamers has asked NPD about the possibility of a similar chart in the U.S., but we have yet to hear back from them.
1 Comments
August 11, 2010
Yeah, you gotta track the Steam sales because I think they've become the big dog in this sector (which is still very small but growing).